“Ay, ay,” shouted the men.
“And he arn’t here, and the luff’s in orspittle.”
“Well, we know that, Iky,” said one of the men.
“Ay, lad; but here comes the son. I says let young Captain Belton take command.”
“Ay, ay!” thundered the men, and they gave three cheers.
“There you are, sir,” said the boatswain. “Men says you’re to take command.”
“I?” cried Syd; “nonsense. There’s Mr Roylance.”
“No, no,” cried the men; and Terry stood grinding his teeth, and looking threateningly at Syd.
“Look here, my lads,” cried Syd; “the captain wants those guns mounted, and this place held.”
“Ay, ay, sir; we’ll do it and hold it again anybody,” cried Rogers.